'Manila in the Fangs of Darkness' is a deconstruction of and an ode to 'Manila in the Claws of Neon' (1975), a film by Lino Brocka, who is widely considered to be the most prolific Filipino filmmaker. His films were also the first to break into the international scene and be screened at the Cannes Film Festival. In both films, Bembol Roco plays the part of a man who tries to protect the lady he loves. In 'Manila in the Fangs of Darkness', Bembol Roco plays the part of Kontra Madiaga, a hardened man who follows his love down the streets of Manila, taking revenge on all who have compromised her, in an attempt to preserve her innocence and protect her from the filth and vices of the city. Festivals: Vienna International Film Festival 2008; Buenos Aires International Festival of Independent Cinema 2009; Jeonju International Film Festival 2009.